Ramires Santos do Nascimento built a career as a versatile box-to-box midfielder, known for the high-energy endurance that earned him comparisons to distance runners. Emerging from the youth ranks in Barra do Piraí, he transitioned through elite leagues in Portugal and England, becoming a key figure in major domestic and international football competitions throughout his professional tenure.
Early Development and Cruzeiro
Born on 24 March 1987, Ramires began his career at Royal Sport Club in Barra do Piraí. He moved to Joinville in 2005 before joining Cruzeiro in 2008 on a five-year contract. During his time at Cruzeiro, he made 61 league appearances and scored 10 goals. His stamina and defensive contributions led fans and media to nickname him the Blue Kenyan, referencing his ability to cover the pitch with the consistency of a marathon runner.
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In May 2009, Ramires moved to Benfica for a €7.5 million transfer fee. He spent one season in Portugal, contributing to the club's 32nd league title and a Taça da Liga victory. His performance attracted English club Chelsea, which signed him in August 2010 for €22 million. During his time in London, he won every major domestic and European competition available to the club.
International Representation
Ramires earned 52 caps for the Brazilian national team. He made his international debut on 6 June 2009 during a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Uruguay. His tournament experience included the 2008 Olympics, where he secured a bronze medal, and participation in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. He also represented his country at the 2010 and 2014 World Cup tournaments, as well as the 2011 Copa América.
Transition to Jiangsu Suning
After establishing himself as a significant fixture at Chelsea, recording 160 appearances and 17 goals, the midfielder moved to the Chinese club Jiangsu Suning. This transfer, completed in January 2016, involved a £25 million fee. His departure from the Premier League marked the end of his time in top-tier European football following five years of service at Stamford Bridge.
Fast facts
- Full name: Ramires Santos do Nascimento
- Born: 24 March 1987, Barra do Piraí, Brazil
- Position: Midfielder
- International caps: 52
- Chelsea debut: 28 August 2010
- Major trophies: Primeira Liga, Taça da Liga
- Career move: Joined Jiangsu Suning in 2016 for £25 million
Questions readers ask
What nickname did Ramires earn at Cruzeiro?
He was called the Blue Kenyan, or Queniano Azul, because his high endurance levels reminded fans of Kenyan marathon runners.
Which major honors did Ramires win with Chelsea?
During his tenure, he won every major domestic and European competition available to the club.
